Metal is durable – which is one of the reasons why it is a popular building material. Eventually, time and the elements will wear away at the metal and it will need to be repaired or replaced. To delay that from happening for as long as possible, paint manufacturers have developed primers and coatings that protect the metal surface.
These materials penetrate and bond well to surfaces, they are strong and long lasting, making well worth the investment. Since not all metals are the same, different primers and coatings are surface specific. For instance, we use a multi-surface acrylic paint on aluminum and galvanized metal, because it bonds to these surfaces incredibly well. Since it is water based, it’s the perfect alternative to solvent-based primers and paints. Which means it’s also environmentally friendly and it’s a low chemical emission certified product.
Steel structures require a different approach, especially if since rust tends to be a major issue. In these situations, we prefer a penetrating epoxy primer that is exceptional at sealing the surface. If there is a situation where an area is really tight and not all the existing rust can be removed, this product penetrates down into the steel and helps prevent the rust from spreading across the surface even more. It can also double as the finished coat, which offsets the fact that it’s a bit more expensive than other primers. Also, it’s available in a variety of sheens and colors, which makes it a great choice for building owners and managers. If you happen to have a facility that is inspected by the United States Department of Agriculture, this product is approved. It’s also suitable for Department of Energy nuclear fuel and weapons facilities.
To learn more about painting your metal surfaces, give Celtic a call at 630-783-1400. We’re happy to answer all your questions.